1988 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 2,827 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (133 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1988 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Pontiac Firebird. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Pontiac Firebird | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Firebird | Golf |
Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2827 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |